eBay, one of the world’s largest online marketplaces, and Argos, the UK’s leading general merchandise retailer, have joined up to offer a Click & Collect service, enabling shoppers to purchase products from selected eBay merchants and pick them up at Argos stores throughout the UK. eBay’s marketplace and Argos’ store network make a powerful and unique combination - a first for the UK. At least 50 eBay merchants will participate in this trial, enabling a wide range of merchandise to be readily available for collection by customers from around 150 Argos stores in primary locations nationally.
As shoppers continue to use digital channels and demand a variety of convenient fulfilment methods for their orders, Click & Collect is expected to grow significantly in the UK. According to the Econsultancy Online Shopping Survey, 40% of UK shoppers used some form of Click & Collect service over Christmas 2012.
The trial delivers choice, convenience, speed and the opportunity to shop on any device.
As Devin Wenig, President, eBay Marketplaces says: “The distinction between offline and online shopping continues to blur. At eBay we continue to find new ways to connect buyers and sellers. Our mission is connecting people with the things they need and love. Traditional retail isn’t going away; it is transforming. Smart retailers are innovating, reimagining the store and what it means to shop. We’re proud to join Argos on this journey. Their unique store network and operating model is fit for serving customers in a digital future. This exciting pilot takes us one step nearer to our goal of offering customers an inspired and seamless shopping experience.”
John Walden, MD at Argos says: “With the continuing growth of online shopping, customers increasingly expect faster, cheaper and more convenient fulfilment of their orders. Few companies move as many products as effectively as Argos through a national network of local stores, served by friendly and well-trained colleagues. Having pioneered Click & Collect in the year 2000, it now accounts for around a third of our business and continues to grow. eBay, an innovator in digital and leading online marketplace connecting sellers and consumers, is already a strong partner with Argos and a logical partner for the trial. We look forward to assessing the opportunity for Argos to provide fulfilment for eBay’s merchants, including the operational requirements, attractiveness to sellers and consumers, and opportunity for increased customer footfall."
